Rights and responsibilities for reservists and employers

Contents

Returning to work

After service, reservists are given a period of leave. If they want to return to work before the end of their leave they must get permission from either their commanding officer or the demobilisation centre.

Employers can’t force a reservist to return to work before their leave finishes.

Notice of returning to work

Reservists should write to their employer as soon as they know when they can return to work. This must be no later than the third Monday after their last day of service.

Employers must re-employ them as soon as they’re able to.

Returning to the same job

Reservists are entitled to return to the same type of job they were doing before they were mobilised, on the same terms and conditions.

If the job no longer exists, they’re entitled to a reasonable alternative.

How long reservists must be re-employed for

Employers must offer reservists employment for a certain amount of time, depending on how long they were employed by them before mobilisation.

Weeks of employment before mobilisation

Number of weeks reservist must be re-employed for

Up to 13

At least 13

Between 13 and 51

At least 26

52 weeks or more

At least 52

Problems returning to work

If you aren’t re-employed you can apply to a tribunal. They can instruct your former employer to re-employ you or award you financial compensation.

Write to the tribunal if, after telling your employer you’re returning to work:

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